A lot of double glazing windows come with a guarantee that lasts up to 20 years. If you do spot a problem it's worth checking with the company you bought the windows from to determine what their policy is regarding repairs.
Repairing your double glazing can be an easy task in some instances. Here are the most common issues and the best way to repair them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to hold the glass's inner and outer together. It is difficult to take out a damaged glass pane without causing damage to the frame. This type of damage may result in a decrease in energy efficiency. It is therefore important to fix the problem quickly and correctly.
Fortunately, repairing cracked glass in double glazing windows is a straightforward job that can be done at home using some tools and materials. To do so, first, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Wear protective gloves as broken glass may contain hazardous fragments. Once the glass that has broken is removed, wipe the frame of the frame using a rag that has been dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any residue left behind by the glue used to secure the broken glass to the window frame.
Remove any remaining glazing points by using a putty knife. Once all glazing points have been removed, clean the backside and l-shaped space of the window frame. Clean the old glass using a wirebrush and the new frame before installing the new pane. Once the glass and frame are clean, a little of glazier's putty may be applied to the edge of the new pane to hold it in place against the frame, and seal the gap between the frames.
Certain types of windows employ vinyl, aluminum or wood stops to hold the glass in place instead of the glazier's point. If double-glazed windows have this type, use a blade to cut through the tape on both sides to remove the stop without causing damage to it. After the stop has been removed, place a strip of strong-hold tape to the glass's surface to protect the glass pane to help prevent any further damage.
Seals that leak
If your double-glazed windows leak, the seals around the frame have probably failed. This is a serious issue as it means that all of the thermally insulating gas has escaped out and your window is losing efficiency. This can result in expensive heating bills since windows aren't as efficient as they once were.
There are some warning signs you can watch out for that will assist you in stopping drafty window from becoming a problem. If you notice that your windows are noisy even when they're closed it could be because the seal has been damaged and requires to be replaced. You may also notice condensation on the glass this is a sign that the seals are failing.
To eliminate drafts, replace the seals on the frames. However, this is a difficult job that requires special tools to ensure that you don't damage the glass. It is best to consult a professional glass company to do this work, as they can use deglazing equipment that can remove the old seals and cause damage to the glass.
You may be able to fix your double-glazed windows that are leaking by using silicone putty. This isn't the best solution as it has a poor heat resistance and can leak again. It's worth a try, if there are no other options.
Rubber seals around double-glazed windows may fail in time. This could be due to age, environmental conditions or the way in which your windows are set up. If this happens, it is important to have the seals replaced as soon as possible to ensure that your double glazed windows are as effective as they were when they were first installed.
Double glazing that isn't functioning properly is typically reflected by a drafty double-glazed window. There will be a draught around the edges of the frame, particularly where the frame is positioned to meet brickwork or surrounding wall. This is because the seal has failed, allowing air get through. This can sometimes cause damp patches to appear on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are an excellent alternative for those who are seeking to reduce their energy bills and improve the insulation of their home. They last for a long time and are durable, but they still require maintenance.
A common issue that double glazed windows experience is condensation. Condensation is often the first sign that a window seal has failed. If condensation isn't addressed promptly, it can lead to mold growth, and possibly wood rot.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning, when air temperatures rise and humidity levels increase, causing water vapour to form. This includes your windows and isn't usually anything to be concerned about, however it's a good idea to wipe away any visible condensation as soon as you can in order to prevent it from setting in.
But it's not always a indicator of a failed seal. There are other reasons your double glazed windows could be leaking. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows can wear down over time. The rubber seals wear down over time, leading them to break. This can cause the air gap to become depressurized. air gap between the glass panes. This is why it's important to get your double glazed windows repaired immediately when you notice indications of condensation or misting.
To fix a double-glazed window that has condensation tradesman will take off the affected pane, before installing it and then running hot air over the gap to remove any moisture that may still remain. Then, they'll apply a new seal in order to keep the gap airtight.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new windows. It is essential to find a reliable tradesman who is able to complete the task. Checkatrade can help you find local certified, vetted and verified traders with experience in double glazing repairs. All you have to do is input your postcode along with the type of tradesmen you require to get a list of results.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one the seals on your frame is damaged If you hear crackling sounds or other unusual sounds emanating from the double-glazed windows. The seals keep cold and water out of the insulating gap between glass panes, and it's vital to get them replaced as soon as possible to prevent moisture from entering your home.
Fractures may break because of general wear and tear or from impact damage caused by pets or children. Most of the time, this can be fixed by a simple fix such as using silicone to fill in the crack or sanding down the area. If double glazing near me is more severe, you may need to replace your window frames. This is something that you should not do unless you're an experienced tradesman.
A common issue with double-glazing is that it is difficult to open or close. This could be due to a build-up of dirt and dust in the track or a structural issue such as warping. This can be fixed by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge dependent on the severity.
Moisture that enters through damaged double glazed windows could lead to dampness in your home, and mold and condensation. This is because warm air inside your home is more prone to holding moisture than the cooler air outside, and so it can easily settle on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that haven't been properly sealed.
The good aspect is that these issues can be repaired and is usually less expensive than replacing your windows altogether. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a warranty, typically for a period of 10 or 20 years and some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Always check your guarantee prior to beginning work. Also, always contact your company in writing, either by mail or email, rather than sending a text message. This will make it easier if you need to follow up with them regarding any issues that arise.
